Mei Xu grew up in China, coming to the United States in 1992 to pursue a graduate degree. After graduating with a Masters of Arts in Communications and Journalism, she found herself stuck in a job that was unsatisfying. So she started thinking of alternatives, unleashing an entrepreneurial spirit that had been lying within. She and husband David founded Pacific Trade International and signature brand Chesapeake Bay Candle in 1994, which has since become one of the largest candle/home fragrance suppliers in the world, supplying major retailers in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Here is part two of her story:
Q: How do you develop fragrances?
A: Fragrance development is one of the most exciting aspects of the product development and design process! Early on, Chesapeake Bay Candle adopted a unique position in partnering not only with candle fragrance vendors, but also with specialists in the fine fragrance industry. This has allowed us to establish strategic alliances with key vendors in fragrance development and delivery technology. When developing a new collection it is always important to ensure it has a good balance of floral, fruit, woodsy, ozonic, or gourmand fragrances.
We try to introduce a new fragrance with every collection by creating a fresh fragrance pairing. Our fragrance team identifies a strong trend in fine fragrance, and if we think it might work for the home category, then we start experimenting—in partnership with our vendor partners. Once we start the development process, there are numerous rounds of testing involved. Extensive testing helps us meet our own quality standards and to bring an optimal combination of fragrance notes and wax combinations to the market.
Q: How did you find a manufacturer?
A: In the beginning we purchased candles from suppliers in China. During that time, we were able to establish relationships with industry insiders and experts. After we learned how to make candles, we decided that we wanted to establish our own manufacturing operations for Chesapeake Bay Candle. In the summer of 1995, we were able to persuade a factory to set up an exclusive supplier relationship with us. With that setup, we were able to focus on what later became Chesapeake Bay Candle’s three pillars of success: great designs, fabulous fragrances, and affordable prices.
